Rats

Description

Size: 19-28 cm head and body length. Tail about 1/2 of body length.

Colour: Grey-Brown or black fur, slightly lighter undersides.

Biology and Habitat

Rats can be found anywhere that humans are. Two types are found in this country, the brown rat or sewer rat and the black rat or ship rat. Wild rats live about 10-14 months and will breed between 5 and 7 times in this period, with an average litter of 7-8 young, a pair of rats may have up to 800 young in one year but mortality rates are high.

Importance

Rats can cause immense damage in the home, due to contamination by droppings and urine and damage by gnawing. Rats may introduce possible food poisoning and Weil's disease. Rats are a public health pest and we can enforce treatment if needed. We offer a free service to residential premises.

SO WHAT MEASURES CAN I TAKE?

Rats may be treated by purchasing poisons or traps yourself, but a professional pest control operator will be able to find the living area and where rats are entering a property.

Rats will be attracted to gardens and out building where pets are involved. Great care is needed with pet food etc. a close watch should be kept on compost heaps and bins, which will give rats, cover during the winter.

Safety

To protect yourself and others and to minimise damage to the environment. Always read and follow the application and use instructions printed on the container when using poisons or traps.

Clean all kitchen surfaces whenever Rats are found indoors regularly.